WELLINGTON – Feb. 29, 2024 – The Acadian and Francophone Chamber of Commerce is delighted to welcome the presentation of a brand-new award at its 2024 Entrepreneurs’ Gala on Saturday, March 16: the Annual IMPACT Sustainable Development Recognition Award, 2023 edition.

RDÉE Prince Edward Island’s « IMPACT: Towards a Responsible and Sustainable Atlantic Economy » project, established the new awards competition, specifically to highlight the significant efforts in the area of sustainable development, made by the province’s businesses and organizations, thereby making a positive contribution to the environment, the province’s social fabric and local governance.

Through the competition, project leaders attracted five entries and named three finalists, Buyers Canada Inc. (Jean-Guy Leblanc) of Summerside, Urbainville Farms (Robert Arsenault) of Urbainville and the Summerside-based Société acadienne et francophone de l’ÎPÉ (SAF’Île). One of these will receive the new award, a trophy carved out of driftwood in the shape of a globe and mounted on a pedestal.

The IMPACT project becomes a Platinum-level sponsor of the Entrepreneurs’ Gala to integrate the award presentation into the ceremonies of this evening of entrepreneurial recognition. Maryne Floch—Le Goff, RDÉE ÎPÉ’s sustainable development officer, recently met with Gala coordinator Raymond J. Arsenault to discuss the recognition evening and the award presentation.

The public is invited to attend the Gala, which will be held at the Village musical acadien in Abram-Village starting at 5:30 p.m. Five additional awards will be presented, and eight retired or retiring entrepreneurs will be inducted into the PEI Acadian and Francophone Business Hall of Fame. Tickets are available in person at the Wellington Rural Action Centre or by phone at 902-854-3439.